Sunday, October 10, 2010

A Word from Annette

10 October 2010

Well, I made it! I am absolutely delighted with the result. I am looking forward to working with the councillors in ways that are positive and constructive and take us forward. I also look forward to building on the relationships that I have in central and local government and in the community. We need to build good relationships and acknowledge the importance of these relationships.

During the campaign I often heard that people are looking for a greater sense of respect, inclusion and positive messages.  You have my word that I will continue to work hard in any way I can for these things, and I know there are many people out there who will support this and want to work with me.

Many of you have helped, supported, delivered, donated, organised, advised, cooked, cajoled, counselled, energised, or otherwise given so generously of your time and expertise, through the campaign, I am very grateful for your support and confidence in me.  I have been overwhelmed and humbled by the many warm messages of support. To all of you who voted for me, thanks.

Sincerely,

Annette Main

Mayor of Wanganui


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Wanganui Mayor Elect, Annette Main

``I'm so pleased for everyone who has been willing to get involved.'' Ms Main said she believed her win signalled a new era in Wanganui. ``People wanted a different style, a more inclusive style. That's the message that came through to us. ``The challenge now is to deliver and really make Wanganui people feel included.'' Ms Main paid tribute to the woman she defeated to win the mayoralty. ``I acknowledge the result is close, and I think that reflects the great job Dot has done as the deputy mayor.'' ``I knew it wouldn't be easy.''


Source: http://www.wanganuichronicle.co.nz/local/news/new-mayor-people-wanted-a-different-style/3925856/
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Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Caring, Capable, Committed

Annette's track record shows she is able to work in a collaborative and positive way, showing both reliable leadership and passion. Annette has her own style, and is not afraid to stand out in a crowd, to do what needs to be done to put us on the map. She is old enough to have acquired wisdom, and young enough to embrace change.

Wanganui needs a caring, capable and committed Mayor.




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Sunday, October 3, 2010

Leadership you can rely on - Fresh Approach to Leadership


Annette can make hard decisions when they are necessary and has learned to handle the dynamics of politics with a firm but reasonable hand.
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The Leader That Wanganui Needs


“Everyone has a contribution to make in achieving the great potential of our city and under my leadership no-one will be left out or left behind, and every idea will be treated with respect because no one person has a monopoly on good ideas.”

- Annette Main

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Monday, September 27, 2010

Annette as a Successful Business Woman | Main for Mayor

Annette Main has an eye for business that goes beyond profit. Through many of Annette's business ventures, local producers and suppliers have a chance to sustain their businesses despite difficult times.



Annette Main with Belinda Marker


Belinda Marker of Flair Catering, with Annette Main, is a regular user of Annette's Kitchen. Her business uses locally sourced products to supply food for cafes and functions.


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Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Regional Councillor Annette Main pays respects to a great leader


22 September 2010

Annette Main, who chairs the Environment Committee at Horizons Regional Council, said today that she was saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Sir Archie Taiaroa.

‘His passing at a time when progress is being made with the issues he was most passionate about is extremely sad for his family, for his people and for all New Zealanders. I will always remember him as a highly principled man who was generous with his advice to me when I sought it. And sometimes when I didn’t.’

Ms Main said ‘The flag will be flying at half-mast at the Regional Council offices as a mark of respect to Sir Archie and I will be attending his tangi in Taumarunui along with other representatives of the Regional Council and the Department of Conservation’

Sir Archie Taiaroa served as a representative on the Regional Council when it was first formed. He has had an ongoing relationship with us as a tireless advocate for the establishment of meaningful partnerships between Whanganui Iwi and the Regional Council.

Ms Main said ‘Sir Archie’s passion and inspiration to us all will live on as we work together to see these come to fruition.’


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Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Letter to Wanganui Chronicle

Dear Editor

Ken Horrocks lays the blame for rate increases from the Regional Council on my shoulders without checking the facts.
In my time at the regional council I have proposed changes to how rates are collected that I believe would enable those who benefit more from a particular activity to pay a fairer proportion of the costs than those who benefit less directly.
This is an age-old dilemma for councils, and while we still have democracy, unless I can get supporting arguments from other councillors who clearly understand how the rating system works, it is difficult to achieve changes like this on your own for our district.
Just voting no to get headlines is not constructive politics, it is populist politics.

That is not my style.
I have worked consistently at the regional council to ensure rates income is fairly distributed into projects which benefit the Wanganui district long-term.
As records show I have worked hard to ensure rate increases are kept as low as is possible, what I haven't done is keep telling you all about it.
I have always welcomed input on what parts of the regional councils role they should stop doing on behalf of our community and its future resilience.
When any came that did not put our community at risk I have listened and acted.

I have been proud to work on behalf of our community at the regional council table, thank-you to the thousands of Wanganui people who have consistently supported that work.

Annette Main
Regional Councillor



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Saturday, September 18, 2010

Weather stalls The River Traders

The Flying Fox Stall-holder Annette Main looked set to fly on Saturday.



19 September 2010



For the first time in the four year history of the riverside market, stall-holders were forced to
abandon trading as high winds blew tables over and lifted canopies away from the ground.

Market organisers said ‘Although our loyal and regular customers braved the elements to purchase
their weekly supplies, by 11am it was obviously unsafe to remain.’

Stall-holders and customers joined forces to take down tents in the driving rain as the storm
approached in full force.

Spokesperson John Milnes who has the weekly task of setting up signage and assisting stall-holders
said’ We have always prided ourselves on being able to say that only the river lapping at our feet
would keep us away, but safety of people came first on Saturday.

Open air markets held throughout the country have to prepare for variability of weather conditions
but we do seem more fortunate here than most.’

Market organisers say they will be back with next Saturday and report increased interest from new
small-holders as the warm weather approaches.

‘Now that we have a little more certainty around riverbank development we look forward to
obtaining a new resource consent to continue to use the area and being able to contribute both
physical and financial resources to the planned improvements once consultation takes place on the
proposals’ said organisers.







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Partnerships for Progress

A priority will be to develop new partnerships for progress, which cleverly positions our district as a world class destination for business investment and visitors. Our economy will then deliver the employment opportunities we need and the lifestyle we want.


Working WITH business leaders
Working WITH other local, regional and central government
Working WITH all of the community

Annette Main


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Response to Wanganui Chronicle Polling Survey

Polling by our team shows a very encouraging picture with Annette in a reasonably comfortable lead. This is also the information that polling by another candidate has shown.

It is important to understand that the only poll that counts is the one on election day. We cannot afford to sit back on our polling results. Let’s give a final push to make sure that we make sure Annette will be our Mayor with a good majority.



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Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Council tributes to Annette Main

15 September 2010
From Annette Main
Horizons councillor Jill White, left, paid tribute to Annette Main’s abilities after the Wanganui
councillor’s last meeting as environment committee chair.

Council tributes to Annette Main

Annette Main’s last meeting as Horizons environment committee chair [Wed Sept 15] was marked
by praise for her 12 years as a Wanganui representative on the regional council.

Wanganui Federated Farmers president Brian Doughty, who is himself seeking election to Horizons
next month, was at the meeting to thank Ms Main on behalf of Federated Farmers and the people of
Wanganui.

“Through the highs and lows of her 12 years on Horizons Annette continued to do an excellent job,”
said Mr Doughty.

Shirley McDouall, who is also seeking one of two Wanganui places on Horizons, was also at the
meeting to see Ms Main farewelled by her fellow councillors and staff.

Ms Main, who is seeking the Wanganui mayoralty, was first elected to Horizons in 1997 and served
one term as the council’s deputy chair. For the past nine years she has chaired the environment
committee, which deals with many Horizons resource management responsibilities including
catchment management, water quality and quantity, and biodiversity.

Deputy environment committee chair Jill White, a former Palmerston North mayor and MP, paid
tribute to Ms Main’s chairmanship abilities.

“You have a quiet authority and you steer the ship very well,” said Mrs White. “It has been a great
learning experience just seeing you in the chair. We will miss you terribly.”

Cr Lynne Bailey, a Horowhenua-Kairanga representative, said though it could be daunting for
members of the public and others appearing before the council, Ms Main put them at ease and
treated them very respectfully.

Senior staff also praised Ms Main’s work as a councillor and relationships with staff before
presenting her with flowers and a puriri tree.


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Monday, September 13, 2010

Mayoral Forum, Sept 13, 2010

Memorial Hall, Wanganui, Sept 13, 2010 - Annette Main discussed her views on leading Wanganui to progress.




Crowd comments:
1. Annette is a hard one to beat
2. Annette Main - Outstanding!
3. Annette Main -She proved to be the most solid, serious and sincere Mayoralty candidate.

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Sunday, September 12, 2010

Enterprising Women Speech by Annette Main, Wanganui Mayor Candidate

Nga mihi a koutou

I appreciate the opportunity the Enterprising Women’s Group has given me to talk with you about why I am standing.
It is my view and the view of many that I talk to both here and outside our district that Wanganui is on the edge of something big, in a world where people are increasingly caught up in the pressures of modern life there is a wave of renewed interest in the way of life offered by communities such as ours.
Personally I know this well as the business my husband John and I run is increasingly visited by people who talk about this.
But back to the wave! Other places have already caught and ridden that first wave of opportunity, but picture us..... Here we are still poised, inching our way through the foam that clouds the edge, getting our balance, watching to choose the right wave to give us a ride which is exciting, but at the same time knowing we need to ride the one which will ensure we survive.

This election is about survival, this election is about how we will meet the challenge faced by all communities outside the main centres.
And this election is about who has the experience, the skills, the time and importantly the courage to lead us as we tackle this challenge.
I have put my name forward because I think that now is the time for me to use all I have learned, the relationships I have formed, my experience in regional governance and my understanding of business for the benefit of our community.
I have shown consistency in my commitment, fairness in my attitudes and have an inclusive approach to leadership.
I carry no history of allegiance or compliance with any previous regime.
I have a solid track record of listening to the community and a commonsense ability to get things done by including people at the outset and taking people along with me, so that people feel they have a genuine stake in the future.

But this election is not about just one person, it is about us and how we can work together as a council and as a district.
There are many fine examples in other areas of the challenges we face being met head on by focusing on existing strengths, clearly identifying the essence of a place and the values it’s residents see as essential to the core of their community.
We have never done this well here, we came close some years ago, some of you may remember a man called Brian Richards who began work with all sectors of the community, people tell me they were getting some-way towards achieving a way forward, that many leaders in our community were ready to commit their time and energy into making things happen, but for some reason previous councils called a halt to the progress being made.
Those people are still out there, they may be a few years older, but they have been patiently waiting to give freely of their time, their knowledge and their energy.

That time is now!

My priority is to see a real partnership for progress formed in our community, beginning with a Futures Forum [ feel free to suggest a better name] where people’s views are respected and able to be expressed freely without being branded as negative.
It is my view that everyone has a contribution to make in achieving the great potential of our district and under my leadership no-one will be left out or left behind, and every idea will be treated with respect because no one person has a monopoly on good ideas.

With input from all sectors, such a forum would identify what would make us happy with where we live, what would make us feel safe.
It would identify what factors are essential to attract new people to live, to invest and to visit.
The benefits of this are not purely financial. People who move here from other places, other countries bring with them a different life experience, new skills, and a new energy which they can infuse into our way of life, our sports groups, our arts, our community groups. We need that new thinking here.

The forum would give us all a better understanding of the current state of our infrastructure, the implications of the maintenance we have deferred over the last years.
We need to make sure we are getting the basics right, which means making sure we are living within our means as a district and that the basic services we all take for granted, like good quality roads and footpaths, waste collection, sports fields and community facilities are maintained and improved.
Such a forum would use the expertise in our community to come up with workable solutions to the debt our council holds on our behalf. None of us holds all the answers on our own, and that includes councillors.
But living within our means is an important way of life for most individuals. It should also be an important consideration for our Council. With many of our ratepayers on fixed incomes, it is not easy for them to find the extra dollars to fund the “nice to have, but not absolutely necessary” projects. Relationships with other agencies need to be re-established to access any available funding sources for new projects; we need to save more borrowing for the essentials, just as many households must do. This common sense approach will be familiar to you all.
The forum could look at the future development of community facilities to identify what’s missing? What more can we afford? How much of a drain on our rates would new facilities continue to be?

It would look at the kind of development in our rural areas that could be encouraged without compromising our environment, and identify potential opportunities.
I would expect that it would clearly identify what I call the ‘the Wanganui brand’ what we want to be in the hearts and minds of people when they think of us so that can more creatively and cleverly promote our city as a world class destination both for visitors and for business investment.
Then will we truly be able to plan our way forward in a way we can afford, in a way that sees growth in our local economy which will enable us to enjoy the lifestyle we want and the employment opportunities we desperately need to keep our young people here and to entice them back.
As an aside, I welcome the news that the Chamber of Commerce is moving right now into new [or should I say historic!] premises right across the road from the Council building.
This signals a new opportunity for Council to engage in a meaningful way with those who represent a good proportion of our business community.
And provides a better way for those looking to invest here in business to engage more positively with both agencies. My congratulations to Bronwyn Paul who has worked hard to ensure this can happen.

Finally I want to say that by choosing a mayor who can lead by bring people together, to get the basics right and to focus on what really needs to get done to move us forward, this district will be unbeatable.
And at the same time this mayor should be a consistently positive ambassador for our community, a person who can give this community as much of their time as it needs. I can do this.

I can promise to represent you in a way you can be proud of,
I can ensure our relationships with others are healthy, respectful and productive,
I will fulfil your expectations of the role,
I will be there at the times we celebrate all that is Wanganui,
And I would do my utmost to really put us on the map in way that makes us all even more proud to say we come from Wanganui.
I would be proud to be lead our community in this way

Thank you for listening. Kia ora.

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Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Annette Main for Wanganui Mayor: Join Annette's Campaign

We have been out walking the streets, talking to people in their homes and the feed-back has been heart-warming, people love living here, they are proud of what we have here and they just want things to be more positive.

Here are some of the key things you can do to help right now...

Check out the website to become familiar with my key messages, my views on current issues and latest media material.

Watch for the video on the site (now available) and ask for a copy if you have others you would like to show it to, its four minutes, longer than planned, but I had a lot to say! I hope you like it.

Join my facebook page or Twitter and encourage your friends and their friends to join, the more we have there the more effective this becomes.

Display a banner in the rear window of your car. These are now available from Webquest at 9 Victoria Ave, upstairs by the Thai Restaurant or at our stand at The River Traders this Saturday. Encourage your friends to do the same, we need to get them out there and visible.

Help get our A4 Posters out into the suburbs and work-places. These can also be collected from Webquest or the Market if you have a work-place, shop window or similar location to display them. I will be personally delivering them in the central business district but need help getting them out into the suburbs and workplaces. If you can do this please record the areas you will be going when you collect the posters, keep a record of where they will be displayed and email it to me so that we ensure we get good coverage and avoid double-ups.

Pick up a book of raffle tickets while you are getting your banners or posters and help us raise the necessary funds to win this campaign. It’s easy to sell, everyone wants to win ‘A night for ten at The Flying Fox with dinner and breakfast served by the campaign team’ The winner will be announced on election night!

Put Sunday 12th September 4pm at 151 London St in your diaries for our next supporters function. Thanks so much for your support, knowing you are all out there with the best interests of our city and district at heart is a huge bonus for me. I will be back in touch early next week with more information on our next meeting.



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Monday, September 6, 2010

Top 5 Issues for Annette Main, Wanganui Mayor Candidate 2010



My experience as Deputy Chair and Committee Chair in regional government has shown me that by working in a genuine partnership with our communities, both rural and urban, both young and older, both well off and not so well off, together we can move our district forward.

1.  Proud of our place 
This is a proud district, we should be justifiably proud of our history, proud of our achievements, proud of our community, and proud of the unique place we have in this world.
I want to see Wanganui really on the map in a positive way, that focuses on all that is good about our lives.

2.  Bringing people together using partnerships for progress 

By bringing people together, getting the basics right and focusing on what really needs to get done to move us forward, this district will be unbeatable. Everyone has a contribution to make in achieving the great potential of our city and under my leadership no-one will be left out or left behind, and every idea will be treated with respect because no one person has a monopoly on good ideas.

My top priority will be a new partnership for progress that will balance delivering high quality council services and investing in promoting the district in order to grow local businesses and to attract new business. By cleverly promoting our district as a world class destination both for visitors and for business investment we can grow the local economy to deliver the lifestyle we want and the employment opportunities we need.

3.  Getting the basics right 

We need to make sure we get the basics right, which means making sure we are living within our means as a city and that the basic services we all take for granted, like good quality roads and footpaths, waste collection, sports fields and community facilities are maintained and improved.
Living within our means
As my campaign for Mayor is progressing the constant theme that I hear is the worry about Council debt levels.

4.  Living within our means is an important way of life for most individuals. It should also be an important consideration for our Council. With many of our ratepayers on fixed incomes, it is not easy for them to find the extra dollars to fund the “nice to have, but not absolutely necessary” projects. We need to save borrowing for the essentials, just as many households must do.

What we need is a council that will take an old fashioned, let’s live within our means approach. I am committed to this common sense approach.


5.  Solid track record of getting things done 
I have a solid track record of listening to the community and a commonsense ability to get things done by including people at the outset and taking people along with me, so that people feel they have a genuine stake in the future.
I want to see us really getting the things done that we need to do to ensure Wanganui continues to build on the community assets we have built and maintained over the years.


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Sunday, September 5, 2010

Annette Main Wanganui Mayoralty Candidate NZ 2010 Elections

I am proud to be  standing for  mayoralty in the council elections this October.

We are  a proud district, proud of our achievements, proud of our community, and proud of our unique place in the world. Yet people are telling me they are worried we are not living within our means as a city and that we need to spend more time getting the basics right.

I intend to take a fresh approach to civic leadership that focuses on bringing people together and providing leadership you can rely on.

We have strong and resilient groups in our community who are passionate about our city and we need to build on that strength, resilience and passion to bring people together and find the common ground vital to moving the city forward.

Everyone has a contribution to make in achieving the great potential of our city and under my leadership no-one will be left out or left behind, and every idea will be treated with respect because no one person has a monopoly on good ideas.

I have a solid track record of listening to the community and a commonsense ability to get things done by including people at the outset and taking people along with me, so that people feel they have a genuine stake in the future.

Mr top priority will be a new partnership for progress that will balance delivering high quality council services and investing in promoting the city in order to grow local businesses and attract new business.

First, we need to make sure we get the basics right, which means making sure we are living within our means as a district and that the basic services we all take for granted, like good quality roads and footpaths, waste collection, sports fields and community facilities are maintained and improved.

And we need to cleverly promote our city as a world class destination both for visitors and for business investment so we can grow the local economy to deliver the lifestyle we want and the employment opportunities we need.

 By bringing people together, getting the basics right and focusing on what really needs to get done to move us forward, our place will be unbeatable.

I am standing as an independent candidate for the mayoralty and will be running a grass roots ‘people power’ campaign that will involve friends and supporters investment.

The sheer number of people who have encouraged me to stand and have offered their help and support should I decide to run has been overwhelming and humbling.  Their kindness and generosity, and belief in our district and its future, is precisely what makes this such a wonderful place.



Annette Main is a successful local business person and local government leader, serving the community on the Horizons Regional Council for 12 years. Along with her husband John, she owns and operates The Flying Fox, an award winning tourism business based alongside the Whanganui River. She also co-ordinates Journeys on the Whanganui, a successful cluster of tourism businesses working collaboratively with the community in which they work.

Annette Main also is the key driver behind the weekly River Traders Market on the downtown riverbank, which has developed a national reputation as one of the best in the country. As well as providing an additional draw card for visitors the market provides an opportunity for local producers and entrepreneurs to showcase their products.

Authorised by Annette Main of 3081 Whanganui River Road



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Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Decrease in visitor numbers a concern

The almost 11 percent decrease in visitors to the district in the past year posed a serious threat to the ongoing viability of both existing tourism businesses and the service industry, and if it continued would be a deterrent to additional investment in these industries locally, Annette Main, owner and operator of The Flying Fox Retreat on the Whanganui River said today.

While the recession has resulted in less than expected growth in tourism overall for the country, numbers for this district have dropped considerably more.

“Our district cannot afford to let opportunities for business growth in this industry slip through our grasp. Our neighbouring regions have lifted their game to meet the predicted challenge of reduced visitor numbers. They have worked alongside operators to ensure that money spent by their councils on marketing is closely aligned with that of the industry and they are consequently doing significantly better than us,” Annette Main said.

‘Although operators in the Whanganui River Valley report significant increases in visitors over the previous summer season, this has not been a general trend throughout the district.

Our part of New Zealand is blessed with the kind of landscapes and natural assets envied by so many in this fast changing world, the challenge for us is to get ourselves in their hearts and minds when choosing a holiday destination.

We have to think creatively and more cleverly to promote our whole district as a world class destination both for visitors and for business investment. Only then will we see growth in our local economy which will enable us to enjoy the lifestyle we want and the employment opportunities we need if we are to have a better future for our families,” Annette Main said.

The growth of visitor interest in local food and produce has been recognised by the Tourism Board who is providing a focus on these regional differences in their marketing. The River Traders Market has taken up that opportunity and have featured in national publications as well as a special mention of the local farmers market section in international chef Peter Gordon’ s latest book being promoted at the Food Show in Auckland this week.

“As Peter Gordon is one of our famous sons, growing up here in Castlecliff, I have asked him if he would consider featuring in promotion of our area in the future and he has agreed. These are the kinds of connections and opportunities to get ourselves on the world stage that we need more of if we are to turn around our local economy” Annette Main said.

Annette Main said she will be speaking with local Member of Parliament Chester Borrows with a view toward inviting Prime Minister and Tourism Minister John Key to spend some quality time in the city, to get a first-hand look at the tourism opportunities of the area, meet with local tourism business operators, and explore ways the government can better assist the growth of the local industry.

Annette Main 021466486


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Sunday, August 29, 2010

The Future of Local Government

There is a lot of talk out there about amalgamation of Councils and their repective roles, I am a believer in sitting around the table to understand the issues and to come up with a way forward

What is the best form of governance for the people of our district?


As a country, region and district we are facing unprecedented financial and environmental challenges. We all want to preserve and enhance our natural environment so we can enjoy the outdoors and have access to clean, safe water in our lakes and rivers.

We also need our farmers to be able to continue to use their land to produce the income which is a major influence on our local and national economy, but at the same time we can’t help worrying about the amount of land in our district that is showing signs of severe erosion that reduces the area available for productive agriculture.

We also want our towns and cities to provide attractive amenities for our recreation and sound basic infrastructure like water supply, refuse collection and disposal, roads and footpaths – but we rightly worry when we see debt mounting to unmanageable levels and pressure to provide new facilities causing badly needed maintenance of our existing buildings and reserves to be shelved.

For a district to go it alone and take on the immensely complex science, engineering and legal functions that regional councils like Horizons must carry out to meet the stringent requirements of the Resource Management Act will not be easy and it is most unlikely to reduce costs.Not to mention all the other work to protect and enhance our communities and their rivers, lakes, bush and farmland.

The long, demanding and costly process of preparing a case for forming unitary authorities will have to be strong enough to convince the Local Government Commission that such a move is viable.

Click here for the most recent comments on this from Local Government Minister Rodney Hide.

But perhaps more importantly, the result of a successful application would be to saddle district ratepayers with further enormous expense at a time when concern is widespread about rising debt and the ability to provide and maintain quality core council services like water, roads, civic buildings and recreational amenities.

The inevitability of costs ranging up to $5 million falling on district council ratepayers if District Councils were to succeed in getting government approval to ‘go it alone’ is outlined in a report prepared by staff .

The model recommended for further investigation includes the retention of two separate councils in Wanganui and Ruapehu and a kind of ‘mini-Horizons’ with joint representation by the two district councils. There’s no reason to doubt the report’s preliminary finding that ratepayers of the two districts would have to find an additional $5 million to fund this kind of arrangement, but the report stresses the need for further investigation.

This is not something that can be decided ‘overnight’ by our district ratepayers or council. Wanganui District Council can gather the information required to fully consider different ways of governance without having a referendum to decide this should be done.I totally support the gathering of the information required to ask the Local Government Commission to review our region.

Other district councils in the region have already sat around the table together with their regional council to look at ways they can work together to provide alternative ways of ensuring ratepayers get the most cost-effective services. The results have been positive with the results being considerable economic and environmental benefits.

This is the first thing which should be happening here in our district if the motive is to reduce costs.

Wanganui and Ruapehu districts share a struggling rural economy, a declining ratepayer base and have little or no current expertise in the kind of science and engineering needed to carry out legislative requirements of unitary authorities, let alone protect and enhance some of New Zealand’s most prized wilderness areas and waterways.

What would the districts and their residents have to lose by going it alone? Costs are inevitably important and their present affiliation with Horizons enables them to benefit from the economies of scale that flow from rates funding that is drawn from 110,000 ratepayers living between Taupo, Wanganui, Levin and Tararua. The region includes a wide ranging urban and rural rates base, from tiny rural hamlets struggling with population decline to the relatively wealthy and growing Palmerston North. For instance, a substantial portion of the current flood protection work at Balgownie is covered by rates collected region-wide.

Importantly, Horizons has worked for years building partnerships and strong relationships with a range of scientists and other specialists, notably from within the Crown Research Institutes, universities and government agencies such as DOC. Tangible government funding helps across a wide range of Horizons work, from sustainable land use development and enhancing biodiversity in the Whanganui River catchment.

Click here to read latest announcement of 7.5 million in government funding to the regional council.

The breadth of its work makes Horizons a very attractive employer for resource specialists who excell at what they do and are passionate about working across such a diverse and nationally important region. They have built up sophisticated analysis and monitoring tools that serve our communities by providing early warning of floods and alerting residents to any degradation in the quality of the water they drink or use recreationally.

Such specialists are in great demand around New Zealand and around the world, and it’s hard to see how they would be attracted to work at what would be likely be underfunded ‘startup’ unitary authorities.

Horizons is committed to working with the district councils as they continue to investigate what might be possible in terms of them taking on resource management and other regional council responsibilities. However, weI want to ensure ratepayers, and the resources that are entrusted to them for this and future generations, can be confident that there will be a thorough, open and transparent process that does not shirk from facing the myriad realities and enormity of any moves towards the unitary authority model.

Annette Main          

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Friday, August 27, 2010

Property owners in our district share my concerns


I know that many property owners in our district share my concerns about how quickly our levels of debt have risen during the last six years.

I am concerned that we have got to the point where our District Council owes $4,370 for each and every property that has to pay rates?

That’s the figure you get when you spread the $87 million debt in this years Draft Annual Plan across all rateable properties. It’s an increase of $2,694 per property since 2003-04 (when total debt was $33.7 m). By 2012-13, when debt is predicted to peak at $97m, it will have risen to a worrying $4,767.80 per property.

At a time of general global financial difficulty and uncertainty about the years ahead, many of us will be wondering how our district will be able to keep borrowing to pay interest on such large sums, let alone pay off meaningful amounts of principal. We have such a limited rating base, and very low population growth trends , and as well sadly, we feature towards the bottom of New Zealand’s family income statistics, so it’s a lot to ask of today’s citizens on fixed incomes and of future generations who choose to continue to live here.
Continue reading, click here.



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Monday, August 23, 2010

Living within our means

As my campaign is progressing the constant theme that I am hearing is the worry about the debt levels and the impact the cost of this debt is having on rates

It is true that the more debt Council incurs on behalf of the community the more we have to pay.

Previous mayoral campaigns have expressed the same concerns, yet debt continues to increase.

Living within our means is an important way of life for most individuals. It should also be an important consideration for our Council. With many of our ratepayers on fixed incomes, it is not easy for them to find the extra dollars to fund the “nice to have, but not absolutely necessary” projects. We need to save borrowing for the essentials and the unexpected , just as many households must do.

But at the same time we need to promote our district positively in order to grow local business and attract new jobs and investment, and build a new partnerships for progress so we can get back to living within our means. More people and investment into our area can bring much needed jobs and help us to spread the load of our existing debt and help to ensure we pay it off as quickly as is possible.


Mayoral Candidate, Wanganui



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Sunday, August 22, 2010

Wanganui or Whanganui?

Recognition of Alternative names for the future

The spelling of the name of our district has been in the media and a topic of conversation for some time

The Government has made a pragmatic decision that we need to work with, let’s not waste any more time arguing about who is right and who is wrong.

If we are truly a community who wants to work together, the resolution of this issue will enable us to do move forward and tackle some of the bigger issues we face.

The Minister for Land Information Maurice Williamson told us and the rest of New Zealand earlier this year that, “The official geographic name for the city of Wanganui will be the alternatives ‘Whanganui' or ‘Wanganui’.

He said “My intention to assign alternative names for the city allows people to choose the name they prefer.

During extensive consultation it became clear to me that local iwi were seeking an acknowledgement of something that is very important to them. They wanted recognition and respect for their history and their language.

It was equally clear that the majority of the city's residents did not want change forced on them.”

The Minister also said that “On balance that alternative naming respectfully acknowledges the correct spelling of the Māori word "Whanganui". It also respects the views of those who have always known the city's name to be spelt "Wanganui.”

Now that this right has been conferred upon us by the government, as mayor I would respect the choice of any individual to use the option they prefer.


-Annette Main
Mayoralty Candidate, Wanganui


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Saturday, August 21, 2010

Contact Annette Main | Freephone 0800 483292


You may reach Annette or her supporters at  0800 483292 (Freephone)



Main for Mayor
Wanganui Mayoral Candidate Annette Main Leadership You Can Rely On
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The Candidate: Annette Main


Main for Mayor, Wanganui



For a newly elected mayor and council, there will be a need to develop healthy and respectful working relationships, with each other, with staff and with the community

My top priority will be a new partnership for progress that will balance delivering high quality council services and investing in promoting the city in order to grow local businesses and attract new business investment.

But first, we need to make sure we get the basics right, which means making sure we are living within our means as a city and that the basic services we all take for granted, like good quality roads and footpaths, waste collection, sports fields and community facilities are maintained and improved.

As mayor I would make it a priority to ensure I understand the current state of our finances and work with council to get a manageable strategy in place to address affordability issues. This will not be an easy task but one I see as a major priority.

There are many groups in our community who are passionate about our city and we need to build on their strengths and their passion to bring people together and find the common ground vital to moving the city forward.

We need to also ensure our city is cleverly promoted as a world class destination both for visitors and for business investment so we can grow the local economy to deliver the lifestyle we want and the employment opportunities we need.

By bringing people together, getting the basics right and focusing on what really needs to get done to move us forward, this city will be unbeatable.




Main for Mayor
Wanganui Mayoral Candidate Annette Main Leadership You Can Rely On
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Wednesday, August 18, 2010

What Annette Main Stands for

I am standing for Mayor in the coming elections, and am working hard to make contact with as many local residents as possible.
I want to better understand what it is about our city and district that you enjoy, what you would like to see done differently, and what kind of future you would like for you, your friends and your family.

As Mayor I will take a fresh inclusive approach to civic leadership that focuses on bringing people together and providing leadership you can rely on.

My priority is to make sure we get the basics right, which means making sure we are living within our means as a city and that the basic services we all take for granted, like good quality roads and footpaths, waste collection, sports fields and community facilities are maintained and improved.

And we need also to cleverly promote our city as a world class destination both for visitors and for business investment so we can grow our local economy to deliver the lifestyle we want and the employment opportunities we need.

My website has more information about me, what I am standing for, and my views on current issues or please phone, text, or email me if you have a view you would like to share with me.
I would really enjoy hearing from you.


Authorised by A Main 3081 Whanganui River Road 4576

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Currently Overseas? You can Still Vote!

If you will be overseas at the time of the general election you can still vote by casting a special declaration vote.

Who can vote from overseas?

You can vote if you are enrolled and:
  • you are a New Zealand citizen and have visited New Zealand within the last three years, or
  • you are a permanent resident of New Zealand and have visited New Zealand in the last 12 months.
You can enrol or update your enrolment details online.

Click here for more information.


Main for Mayor
Wanganui Mayoral Candidate Annette Main Leadership You Can Rely On
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Sunday, August 15, 2010

Support the Campaign!


If you are able to help with the campaign to ensure Annette Main becomes the Mayor of our city and district from this October, then please complete this and return it to us, so that we can ensure we have your correct contact details and a better idea of what you are available to assist with. We would love to have your support over the next three months to get out there in our community. We are intending that this will be a back to basics ‘people power’ and ‘positive’campaign and most importantly ,we want to have fun along the way. This website www.mainformayor.co.nz will be updated regularly and will include a calendar of events and meetings coming up throughout the campaign, I realy do appreciate the support and encouragement you have provided so far.



Annette Main
Email: annette@mainformayor.co.nz
Phone/Txt: 021 466 486

Click here.


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Saturday, August 14, 2010

Enrol to Vote!


Stand with Annette! Enrol to vote!
Learn more from this link

Main for Mayor
Wanganui Mayoral Candidate Annette Main Leadership You Can Rely On
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Thursday, August 12, 2010

Annette Main to stand for Mayor | Wanganui


Successful local businesswoman and respected regional councillor Annette Main today announced that she will stand for the Wanganui mayoralty in the council elections this October.


“This is a proud city, proud of our achievements, proud of our community, and proud of our unique place in the world. Yet people are telling me they are worried we are not living within our means as a city and that we need to spend more time getting the basics right,” Annette Main said. Annette Main said she intends taking a fresh approach to civic leadership that focuses on bringing people together and providing leadership you can rely on.

“We have strong and resilient groups in our community who are passionate about our city and we need to build on that strength, resilience and passion to bring people together and find the common ground vital to moving the city forward,” Annette Main said. “Everyone has a contribution to make in achieving the great potential of our city and under my leadership no-one will be left out or left behind, and every idea will be treated with respect because no one person has a monopoly on good ideas.”

“I have a solid track record of listening to the community and a commonsense ability to get things done by including people at the outset and taking people along with me, so that people feel they have a genuine stake in the future.”

Annette Main said that her top priority will be a new partnership for progress that will balance delivering high quality Council services and investing in promoting the city in order to grow local businesses and attract new business investment.

“First, we need to make sure we get the basics right, which means making sure we are living within our means as a city and that the basic services we all take for granted, like good quality roads and footpaths, waste collection, sports fields and community facilities are maintained and improved,” Annette Main said.

“And we need to cleverly promote our city as a world class destination both for visitors and for business investment so we can grow the local economy to deliver the lifestyle we want and the employment opportunities we need.”

“By bringing people together, getting the basics right and focusing on what really needs to get done to move us forward, this city will be unbeatable.”

Annette Main said she is standing as an independent candidate for the mayoralty and will be running a grass roots ‘people power’ campaign that will involve friends and supporters of every political persuasion and from every corner of Wanganui. “The sheer number of people who have encouraged me to stand and have offered their help and support should I decide to run has been overwhelming and humbling. Their kindness and generosity, and belief in our city and its future, is precisely what makes this such a wonderful place,” Annette Main said.